Senate Grills Governor Njuki Over Failures in Kathwana and NIWASCO

Tharaka-Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki appeared before the Senate County Public Investments and Special Funds Committee on 24th June, 2025 to respond to audit queries on governance lapses and financial mismanagement at Kathwana Municipality and Nithi Water and Sanitation Company (NIWASCO) during the 2023/2024 Financial Year.

The Committee, chaired by Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, summoned the governor after findings revealed that Kathwana Municipality operated without a legally constituted board at the time it approved its budget, raising red flags over accountability and oversight.

"Operating without a duly constituted board, as was the case when the budget was approved, is a serious breach. We also note the lack of evidence for own-source revenue collection," said Senator Osotsi.

The Committee further expressed concern over the municipality’s failure to provide evidence of its revenue collection mechanisms and accountability of its assets.

"It's alarming. The municipality must urgently demonstrate how it's generating revenue and account for its assets, including a timeline for tagging," added Senator William Kisang.

In response, Governor Njuki acknowledged that the board was absent at the time but assured the panel of ongoing corrective measures.

"The board for Kathwana Municipality was not in place then, but we are addressing this. A fixed assets register is now available," said Njuki.

NIWASCO also came under scrutiny for its 56 percent non-revenue water rate and unsettled debts. Njuki defended the water utility, citing the recovery of KSh 31 million in receivables and KSh 12 million in payables, alongside the introduction of revised tariffs aimed at meeting wage obligations.